Actor Jesse Lee Soffer has made waves by transitioning from Chicago P.D. to FBI: International, both part of Dick Wolf’s expansive television universe. Soffer, who portrayed Jay Halstead for a decade, has taken on a new role as Agent Wesley “Wes” Mitchell in the fourth season of FBI: International. His decision to shift shows has sparked interest, and Soffer recently shared his thoughts on this exciting career move.
A New Chapter Within the Wolf Universe
In a conversation with Screen Rant, Soffer elaborated on his motivations for joining FBI: International despite his long tenure on Chicago P.D. He expressed a deep appreciation for Dick Wolf’s productions, stating, “Dick Wolf doesn’t make bad TV. He’s kind of got the market cornered.” This high regard for Wolf’s storytelling and character development played a significant role in his decision.
Soffer highlighted the opportunity to work once again with Matt Olmstead, who was the showrunner for the first five seasons of Chicago P.D. His excitement about carving out a new character alongside Olmstead is palpable: “I get to travel to Budapest. There’s so much cool in this gig.” This sense of adventure and the chance to explore new narratives were key factors in his choice to move on.
What This Means for FBI: International Season 4
Soffer’s character, Wes, is poised to be a significant addition to the FBI: International team, stepping in as the new leader following Luke Kleintank’s departure as Scott Forrester. This transition will undoubtedly bring fresh dynamics to the series, especially as the established members of the Fly Team adapt to their new leader.
The previous character of Jay Halstead left the Chicago Police Department to return to military service, which has left a lasting impact on the show. Although Soffer’s Halstead has not physically appeared since his departure, the emotional weight of his storyline continues to resonate, particularly with his off-screen divorce from Hailey Upton (Tracy Spiridakos).
A Memorable Addition to the Team
Soffer’s familiarity with the Dick Wolf universe suggests that his new character will fit seamlessly into the existing framework of FBI: International. He possesses a unique understanding of the intricacies that come with being part of this well-established franchise. While it remains to be seen how the Fly Team will react to Wes as their leader, Soffer’s enthusiasm for the role indicates a positive trajectory for his character.
Conclusion
Jesse Lee Soffer’s transition from Chicago P.D. to FBI: International exemplifies the ever-evolving landscape of television and the opportunities it presents for actors. His commitment to exploring new characters and narratives within the familiar framework of Dick Wolf’s universe is sure to captivate audiences. As FBI: International prepares for its fourth season, fans can look forward to seeing how Soffer’s character will impact the team and the stories that unfold.
